Bhutan saw a surge in tourism in the fourth quarter of last year, with over 49,000 visitors. This was a significant increase of more than 145 per cent from the third quarter when 20,000 tourists visited the country. As a result, revenue from the Sustainable Development Fee increased by over 155 per cent in the fourth quarter. This is according to the National Statistics Bureau’s Socio-Economic Indicators report released yesterday.
The total number of tourists visiting Bhutan dropped to around 20,000 in the third quarter, down from 50,000 in the second quarter of last year.
However, the fourth quarter saw a substantial recovery, with more than 49,000 tourists visiting the country.
According to the report, dollar-paying tourists increased from 7,973 in the third quarter to 20,957.
Likewise, Indian tourists arrivals increased from 12,052 in the third quarter to 28,203 in the fourth quarter.
Tourism revenue reached USD 12 M in the fourth quarter compared to USD 5 M, marking an increase of more than 150 per cent.
According to the Department of Tourism, several factors contributed to the surge in tourist arrivals in the fourth quarter of last year. Firstly, the collaborative efforts of key partners, both in private and public, international collaborators, and various agencies played a crucial role in promoting Bhutan to a global audience, significantly boosting tourism during this period.
Additionally, the significant awareness and interest generated by initiatives like the Gelephu Mindfulness city (GMC), under the leadership of His Majesty The King and the Prime Minister and the proactive policies of the government, have played a pivotal role in recognition of Bhutan on the international stage and driving tourist arrival during this period.
Bhutan has several major religious and non-religious festivals during these months, such as the Druk Wangyel Festival and the Black-Necked Crane Festival. These events, combined with pleasant weather and clear skies, attract both local and international visitors, offering them a unique cultural experience throughout the year.
The Department of Tourism’s promotion of Bhutan as an all-year-round destination by supporting the tourism industry in identifying, developing, and promoting diverse products and services and targeted marketing campaigns that appeal to visitors in all seasons has also contributed to this surge.
The year-end holiday season also encourages increased travel, as many international tourists take advantage of their vacations to explore Bhutan.
Furthermore, the Department of Tourism’s (DoT) strategic marketing and promotional efforts, including Bhutan’s active participation in international tourism fairs, organising Bhutan roadshows, conducting webinars, strong social media presence, etc., have enhanced the country’s visibility in key markets, further driving the increase in tourist arrivals.
Additionally, high-level international engagements and visits led by the Prime Minister have further strengthened Bhutan’s global presence, contributing to the growing interest among international travellers.
Meanwhile, the government has set a target of 250,000 tourist arrivals for this year. The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment, last year, announced efforts to make travel to Bhutan more accessible, including potential airfare subsidies.
Additionally, the ministry is implementing capacity-building initiatives aimed at upskilling tour guides, hotel staff and other tourism-related personnel to enhance the overall visitor experience. The ministry has set a goal to generate over Nu 2.5bn in revenue.
Namgay Wangdi
Edited by Sonam Pem
